2019 Royal London One-Day Cup – Somerset vs Hampshire Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Somerset vs Hampshire taking place? Sunday 5th May, 2019 – 11:00 (UK)
Where is Somerset vs Hampshire taking place? The Cooper Associates County Ground
What is the expected weather for Somerset vs Hampshire? 10-11c with cloudy intervals but no rain
What channel is Somerset vs Hampshire in the UK? This match will not be televised live in the UK
Where can I stream Somerset vs Hampshire? N/A
Where can I get tickets for Somerset vs Hampshire? https://www.ecb.co.uk/tickets/domestic
THE STATISTICS
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Last meeting: Somerset beat Hampshire by 3 wickets
THE TEAM NEWS
SOMERSET
Coach: Jason Kerr
Captain: Tom Abell
- Somerset are running the risk of dropping out of contention for the knockouts despite winning their first four matches in a row, as they have lost their last two games to Gloucestershire and Middlesex and need to get back to winning ways here.
- The batting against Middlesex was pretty woeful with only Azhar Ali and the tail producing significant contributions but the bowling attack was far too pedestrian and expensive conceding 364/6 so they will have to improve against an even better batting line-up here.
- They have been without Jamie Overton so far this season due to a side strain but he has been named in the squad for the first time after playing for North Devon in their Servicesmaster Devon T20 wins this week and he could come straight into the side here.
HAMPSHIRE
Coach: Adrian Birrell
Captain: Sam Northeast
- Holders Hampshire have been the standout team in the Royal London One-Day Cup so far having won six of their seven matches and they are showing all the credentials which suggest they could successfully defend their crown.
- From the team which narrowly beat Sussex last time out by nine runs, Joe Wetherley and West Indian paceman Fidel Edwards join the eleven that played that game and there is a chance that Edwards come in to replace Berg or Fuller.
- Despite missing James Vince once again who is on England duty, the batting continues to produce the goods with Alsop and Markram coming off centuries against Sussex, while Liam Dawson continues to shine in the all-rounder spot with bat and ball, and he is arguably their most vital player right now.
THE PREDICTION
The top two teams in the South Group meet at Taunton for a match which is arguably more important for the home side given they need the win to stay in the top three. They have faded in their last couple of matches losing twice and they have to halt that here otherwise they could drop out of the top three on Sunday. Hampshire are on fire right now and only complacency is a threat to them right now. It is difficult to oppose them as form is firmly in their favour, but they may ease up a little here which could allow Somerset a chance to bounce back.
